Dead zone, Aral Sea, Kazakhstan. Formerly one of the 4 largest lakes in the world, the Aral Sea has been steadily shrinking since the 1960's after the rivers that fed it were diverted by Soviet irrigation projects. By 2007, it had declined to 10% of its original size. In an ongoing effort in Kazakhstan to save and replenish the North Aral Sea, a dam project was completed in 2005; in 2008, the water level in this lake had risen by 39 ft. compared to 2003. Photo by Max Ashirov

Who established the mountains by His strength, being clothed with power; You who still the noise of the seas, the noise of their waves, and the tumult of the peoples. They also who dwell in the farthest parts are afraid of Your signs; You make the outgoings of the morning and evening rejoice. Psalm 65:6-8